Raymond Eugene Mitzel

Raymond "Ray" E. Mitzel, age 80 passed away surrounded by his loving family on March 24, 2013. Ray was born on October 16, 1932 in Cadiz, Ohio. He was a 1950 graduate of Washington High School. Ray married Joanne G. Sigurdsen on January 18, 1957 and they shared 55 years together until her passing on June 7, 2012. Ray served his country in the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After his active military service he served in the Ohio National Guard for over 30 years, where he later retired as a Command Sergeant Major. Ray, an avid golfer, reached his proudest moment in the sport when he achieved a hole-in-one during his retirement. He was also a lifetime member of the VFW. Ray was a kind, giving person, with a great sense of humor. He will forever be remembered as a devoted and loving, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend. Ray is survived by his children, Kathy Dickens, Thomas Mitzel, Cynthia Moyer, Robert (Natalie) Mitzel, and Jeannette (Stephan) Birkich; his grandchildren Ashley, Amy, Anthony, Megan, Emmalie, and Nathan; and one great-grandchild Paige. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his loving mother Clara Mitzel. In accordance with his wishes there will be a private celebration of his life at a later date. The family would like to thank the staff at the Laurels of Massillon for taking such good care of their father during his stay with them. Donations can be made in Ray's memory to the Stark County Humane Society, P.O. Box 7077, Canton, Ohio 44705. Paquelet Funeral Home & Crematory – 330-833-3222